The European Union's General Affairs Council has commenced a hearing focused on the rule of law in Hungary as part of the Article 7 process, amid escalating impatience over recent legal initiatives from Prime Minister Viktor Orbán's government. The hearing will address significant concerns surrounding the government's "spring clean," which includes a draft transparency law targeting foreign-funded media and NGOs, as well as the controversial ban on the Budapest Pride march.
Prior to the meeting, 17 EU member states issued a joint declaration condemning the ban, asserting it violates EU law. The declaration expressed alarm over developments that run counter to fundamental EU values, including human dignity, freedom, equality, and human rights, as outlined in Article 2 of the Treaty on the European Union.
The new legislation allows for fines to be imposed on participants and organizers of the Pride event, as well as the use of AI smart cameras to identify attendees. The joint declaration called on Hungary to revise these measures to ensure the protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms, in line with its international obligations.
Signed by several member states, including Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, and Sweden, the declaration urges the European Commission to take action if Hungary does not amend the law. Hungary's EU minister, János Bóka, dismissed the criticism upon arriving at the meeting, asserting that there is no Pride ban in Hungary and expressing hope for a more nuanced understanding of the situation.
The Article 7 process began in 2018, triggered by concerns over rule of law violations in Hungary, particularly in relation to justice and media freedom. Despite seven discussions among EU leaders, the Council has yet to initiate the next stage of the Article 7 process, which would require member states to vote on potential sanctions.
Critics are also wary of a draft bill titled "Transparency of Public Life," which could empower the Hungarian government to suppress dissent and control the media. The European Commission has requested that Hungary withdraw this bill, cautioning that its passage would represent a serious breach of EU principles and law.
Sweden's EU minister voiced concerns about the backsliding on rule of law and LGBTI rights, stating that the ongoing Article 7 process cannot continue without a shift in Hungary’s approach. Similarly, German EU minister Gunther Kirchbaum emphasized that patience is waning among member states, highlighting the urgency for decisive action.
As Hungary navigates these political pressures, the EU's commitment to upholding democratic values and human rights remains a critical focus of ongoing discussions.
